The Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) closely monitors the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The first case in the state was confirmed on March 6, 2020. Ten days later, ISDH reported the first death in the state due to COVID-19.
ISDH works closely with federal and local partners to respond to the evolving public health situation. Consumers and healthcare professionals can find updated information on the agency’s website Indiana’s Novel Coronavirus Response. Most recently, ISDH provided an infographic containing important advice and reminders about wearing gloves (outside the healthcare environment).
The Gloved Hands May Spread Germs infographic was created by the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC). The resource calls attention to the fact that gloves are not a substitute for handwashing:
People are wearing gloves (made from materials like vinyl, latex or nitryl) when they head out in public during the pandemic. While individuals think they are being safe and protecting themselves and others from the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19, they may actually be spreading germs in the community. Vinyl, latex and nitryl gloves protect the skin from body fluids and certain harmful chemicals. The surface of gloves can support germs just like skin. But, unlike skin, washing gloves is not an option. Even healthcare workers are instructed to wash their hands before they put on gloves and after taking off gloves. Gloves are not a substitute for hand washing.
The resource also describes how gloves can spread germs, are not a complete barrier, and perhaps most importantly, reminds people to not touch their faces.